What happens at the first mediation meeting?
Many mediators offer an initial consultation so that you can meet the mediator, ask questions about mediation, and decide if you’d like to try using mediation to settle your divorce or Family Law matter. The mediator or Dispute Resolution Associate will explain the process, and you can ask any questions that you wish. The actual Mediation process involves sitting down at a table in a neutral location where both parties will have the opportunity to present their stories in a balanced and non-confrontational way. There are only two steadfast rules, and you can add additional ground-rules if you like: One person speaks at a time. No name-calling. Everything flows from there in an orderly and organized fashion. Each person gets a chance to tell their side, and typically you’ll decide together with the mediator who goes first and how long they speak. You can respond to what the other person says, but you will wait until it’s your turn to speak. Next, the mediator typically will make a list
